Review of Norwegian experiences with the phase-out of dental amalgam use

Author: Skjelvik JM, Grytli ES

Source: Vista Analysis AS

Year: 2012

Comment:

The preface of this document states: "Vista Analysis has been asked by the Norwegian Climate and Pollution Agency (Klif) to review the experiences from the phase-out of the use of dental amalgam as tooth filling material in Norway, and make an assessment of the costs to the society from the actions taken to limit the release of mercury. The purpose is to show how Norway has carried out this policy."

Abstract / Excerpt:

“New filling materials were introduced in Norway in the 1970s, and were gradually preferred for aesthetic reasons. Focus on dental amalgam as an environmental problem emerged during the 1980s as part of a broader policy to limit emissions of mercury. In 1991 the health authorities issued guidelines recommending dentists to reduce the use of dental amalgam, and new guidelines from 2003 required that other materials than dental amalgam should be considered as the first choice in tooth fillings. Preventive use of fluoride has also contributed to improved dental health and reduced use of dental amalgam.
A requirement to have an approved dental amalgam separator installed in all dental clinics was introduced in 1994. Requirements to control the mercury air emissions from crematoria with more than 200 cremations per year were implemented in 2007.
Norway introduced a general ban on the use of mercury in products from 2008. Limited exemptions for dental amalgam use were applied until the end of 2010.”

Citation:

Skjelvik JM, Grytli ES. Review of Norwegian experiences with the phase-out of dental amalgam use. Vista Analysis AS. 2012.